This site may earn affiliate commissions from the links on this page. Terms of use.

LG is bringing a beast of a smartphone to Verizon on January 19: the LG Spectrum, which was previously pegged to launch as a sequel to the Revolution. It’s been nearly eight months since the Revolution arrived, and as you’d expect, the hardware in the Spectrum leaves its predecessor in the dust.

On the back of the Spectrum you’ll find an 8MP camera capable of shooting 1080P video, and it’s paired with a 1.3MP unit on the front. Connectivity options abound, from support for Verizon’s LTE network to Bluetooth 3.0 and Wi-Fi direct. A micro HDMI output and DLNA support have been included for easy viewing of your media on connected displays, and the Spectrum’s mobile hotspot mode allows you to share your speedy LTE link with up to ten additional devices.

Power for the Spectrum is supplied by an 1830mAh battery, and Verizon is making a massive 3000mAh extended battery available on launch day as well. At 10.4mm, the Spectrum isn’t especially slim — it’s nowhere near Droid Razr thin — its thicker chassis does a good job of smoothing out the hump that has become associated with 8MP cameras. LG has also managed to keep the Spectrum reasonably light at 140g.

Apart from the capable hardware package, Spectrum buyers will also be treated to a little exclusive HD video content: ESPN Sportscenter and Netflix HD, though the latter isn’t a true exclusive. Droid Razr owners get that, too. If you were hoping that all this would be topped off with a helping of Ice Cream Sandwich, however, prepare for a let down: the Spectrum is launching with Android 2.3, but an update should arrive in the coming months.